Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy Refines Programming Concept For Presidio Exchange, A Contemporary Center Of Nature And Culture In The Presidio

Media Contact: 
David Shaw, Parks Conservancy
(415) 561 3064
dshaw@parksconservancy.org

SAN FRANCISCO, January 17, 2014: The Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy has submitted supplemental materials to the Presidio Trust Board of Directors, elaborating on the programming opportunities and public appeal of the Presidio Exchange (PX)—a modern, participatory cultural center envisioned for the former Commissary site (currently Sports Basement) in the Mid Crissy Field area.

The PX is a contemporary center for exploring the intersection of human culture and the natural world through creative expression and compelling exchange (full details outlined in the supplement, available at www.presidioexchange.org).

“In response to the Presidio Trust’s requests for additional specificity on PX public programming, our creative team has crafted a robust vision for what the PX would bring to this and future generations of park users,” said Parks Conservancy President and CEO Greg Moore. “Through the caliber of its programs, the reach and talents of its partners, and the world-class setting it occupies, the PX will be a star attraction in the constellation of Presidio offerings—and bring further distinction to this innovative national park.”

Among the PX public programming concepts described in the supplement are:

• Signature programs, events, and symposia fostering stimulating exchanges on the nexus of nature/culture, and exploring solutions to critical global issues;
• Signature exhibitions and major place-based art installations by leading artists, photographers, conservationists, scientists, and other innovators;
• Youth programs, particularly programs for inner city youth, that expand the reach of the Crissy Field Center and build upon the Conservancy’s expertise, track record, proven experience, community connections, and partners in this arena;
• Classes, workshops, and hands-on events for community members and groups, particularly underserved audiences;
• Music, films, and ideas festivals designed to build understanding and appreciation of the connections between human culture and the natural world;
• PX Digital Exchange (PXDX), an online outreach and exchange program drawing on the latest technology to engage the Bay Area tech community and extend the PX experience around the world.

PX programming will be supported by a diverse range of Program Partners from throughout the Bay Area and across the country, among them the FOR-SITE Foundation, the Aspen Institute, and National Geographic Society. More information on potential PX program partners is available in the Parks Conservancy’s press room.

In addition to delivering fresh, fun, and compelling public programs in the Presidio, the PX will complement the offerings of other Presidio centers and visitor facilities, particularly those at the Main Post. The Parks Conservancy will work closely with the Presidio Trust to conceive and present programs that span multiple park venues and enhance—rather than duplicate—visitor experiences throughout the Presidio.

The Parks Conservancy also has reduced the scale of the proposed PX building to align with its more focused program plan and fit even more seamlessly and gently into the park setting. These refinements include:

• Reducing the total PX building footprint to 55,000 square feet (Phase I of the original proposal);
• Incorporating a World Stage Plaza as an outdoor gallery and event space;
• Including an elevated pedestrian walkway extending from the west side of the building to the future Cemetery tunnel top parkland (originally planned for Phase II).

The Parks Conservancy will detail PX programming and the revised site and building plan at the Presidio Trust Public Board of Directors Meeting on Monday, January 27, 2014, at 6:30 PM at the Herbst Pavilion on the Presidio Main Post, 385 Moraga Avenue, San Francisco. This meeting marks the last opportunity in the Trust’s Request for Proposals process for the public to make comments to the Trust Board in person. Media are welcome and encouraged to attend.

For more information on the Parks Conservancy and to read the full PX proposal and supplement, please visit www.presidioexchange.org.